Tips for Travelling with Your Dog
Traveling with your dog safely requires preparation and consideration of your dog's comfort and needs.
Here are tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for both you and your dog
Vet Check-Up
Health Check: Ensure your dog is healthy and up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, and heartworm medications.
ID Tags & Microchip: Update your dog’s identification tags and ensure their microchip information is current.
Travel Documents: If traveling internationally, or flying, ensure you have all required health certificates and vaccinations.
Use a Secure Travel Carrier or Harness
For Cars: Use a crash-tested crate, dog seat belt, or harness to keep your dog safe and secure. Dogs roaming freely in cars can be a distraction and a danger in case of an accident.
For Air Travel: Invest in an airline-approved carrier if your dog is small enough to travel in the cabin. For larger dogs flying in cargo, ensure the crate is sturdy and well-ventilated.
Plan Frequent Breaks (For Car Travel)
Bathroom Breaks: Stop every 2-3 hours for your dog to relieve themselves and stretch.
Exercise: Allow some playtime or a short walk during breaks to release pent-up energy.
Pack Essentials
Food & Water: Bring enough food for the entire trip and portable bowls. Ensure your dog has access to water during the journey.
Medications: Pack any necessary medications your dog takes regularly, and extras for emergencies.
Comfort Items: Bring your dog’s bed, favorite toys, or a blanket to make them feel at home in new environments.
Waste Bags & Cleaning Supplies: Be prepared to clean up after your dog during the trip.
Familiarize Your Dog with the Car or Crate
Short Practice Trips: Take your dog on shorter trips to get them accustomed to the car or crate before a long journey.
Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm behavior in the car with treats and praise to make travel a positive experience.
Never Leave Your Dog in a Hot Car
Heat Risk: Even with windows cracked, cars can become dangerously hot within minutes, risking heatstroke. If you must leave your car, ensure your dog is with you or in a safe environment.
Research Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Hotels and Airbnbs: Before traveling, check for pet-friendly hotels or accommodations along your route and at your destination.
Pet Policies: Ensure you understand any pet policies, fees, or restrictions, such as breed or size limits.
Click here for resources for finding pet friendly hotels, restaurants and activities
Maintain a Consistent Routine
Try to keep your dog’s feeding, walking, and sleep routines as close to normal as possible, even while traveling, to reduce anxiety and stress.
Prepare for Motion Sickness
Symptoms: Dogs may show signs of motion sickness like drooling, whining, or vomiting. You can help by keeping the car cool and ventilated or asking your vet for anti-nausea medication if needed.
Stay Calm and Attentive
Dogs are sensitive to their owners’ emotions. If you stay calm and confident during the journey, your dog is more likely to feel at ease.
These precautions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for both you and your dog.